Aug
23
Crashing the Blog Cabin Master Suite
Our Bath Crashers episode premieres Monday night, but today we have a special treat: an exclusive vlog starring Bath Crashers host Matt Muenster and Blog Cabin 2012 show host Chris Grundy. See what they have to say about the experience of remodeling both the master bedroom and master bathroom.
And if you haven’t yet, please take some time to click through our before-and-after slideshow, artistic photos and candid, behind-the-scenes snaps from the episode shoots. Enjoy!
The Master suite is so beautiful! I love the use of the old and the new. The mantel under the window, the hooks Nathan welded (without gloves,ouch!), the repurposed farmhouse sink, and especially that tub! The winner can soak for hours. Great job coordinating the old and the new, preserving the history of the house. Hey Chris, are you up for a "time share". Haha.
I couldnt agree more! Alll that you've said here, MY thoughts EXACTLY! Ohhh! Its just beautiful….breath-taking really! And Chris…YOU are a TRIPPPP! If I win, I'll give you time-share annd a nice, hot cooked SOUTHERN STYLE dinner anytime, my friend. Good Luck…to ME! haha! To ALL!
I'm at a loss as to how to heat this bathroom in the late summer, fall & winter, as well as how to NOT KILL YOURSELF in this tub! This is not a relaxing tub; this is a money pit. Coming from a cold climate, you need to enclose yourself in tub and/shower areas to maintain temps that are inviting. Also, where does the hot water come from? No indication of water heater… altho did someone say there is a basement.
The Master Bedroom and bath are beautiful and that is a good thing since it is the ONLY bathroom on the first floor. I have no idea who made the decision to get rid of the powder room, but they have effectively made this home about TWICE as hard to sell for the winner! Even the Urban Oasis condo has more bathrooms than this home (vacation house or not).
I don't really know where to put this comment, but here goes. DIY, tell your website developer to lock the DIY network search bar/easy project finder to the top of the page. It is EXTREMELY annoying to have to deal with a scrolling bar that is right at eye level the whole time you are looking at ANY page!
Really? Only one bathroom on the first floor? I wonder if it would be possible to add one to the laundry room.
Agreed. The lack of a powder room/2nd washroom on the first floor is a major design mistake.
The lack of bathrooms in this whole house IS THE ONLY PROBLEM I can see !!!
Basement access?
I wondered about that also. How do you get to the basement?
That too! Big Glass dormer/windows across Megaden!!! Parking/unload next to house! Rest is piece of cake!!!
Kitty
If I won this house I wouldn't want to sell it — but I do agree that a powder room is an absolute must. I think one could probably be added to the laundry room, though. I like what was done with the focus wall — and that the closets are out-of-sight in the hallway to the bedroom.
A huge master bedroom and the paneling behind the bed is superb. The color is growing on me. Can you picture waking up to that incredible view every morning of your life? This may be the best room in this house? I can imagine laying their and listing to distant crickets from out in the field in the cool of the early morning, while watching for the sun to come up.
I really like the use of the old doors behind the bed. It gave it an architectural look. Yes, I can imagine laying with the window open and hearing the sounds of crickets and frogs perhaps. Nothing like the country or lake area to enjoy the beauty and sounds of nature.
I agree my favorite room next to the kitchen. A true retreat. except for the sharing of the bathroom with guests, but they can be directed upstairs for the most part!
I so enjoyed watching a preview of Matt and Chris working together! Can hardly wait till Monday–we're in for a treat! The Master BR and Bath are beautiful, but I know I shall have to do a little adjusting for my own needs, while keeping everything Matt designed. I'm pleased to see that the toilet is not buried deep in a hall niche, so it can be accessible. I'm still uncertain about width of access space between tub surround and entry to shower for wheelchair or walker. That remains important to me. LOVE the sink!!!!
Insofar as the powder room toilet, I think part of the issue was the windows that would have to be somehow split or removed, to separate laundry room from a bathroom–something I don't think had been thought out previously. If i were so lucky as to win, I would have to do something to get a toilet in that area as well, but the window issue was something I never saw mentioned previously. <3 Kitty
If you look at the original remodeled floor plan and the laundry room as it is now, you can see that the windows would not pose a problem. I'm thinking the powder room was scrapped for financial reasons. They didn't expect to have to tear out and replace the original subflooring of the house when they were calculating costs.
The decision to take away the first floor powder room was made by the designer, Victoria Lesser. Here's part of her blog on the topic, it may help. I don't think cost was a factor.
…. "And I must also take the punishment for eliminating the powder room on the ground floor. It came down to a compromised powder room as well as a compromised laundry room. If there had not been a really grand bathroom in the Master bedroom as well as a great bathroom on the second floor I would have said yes to the two smaller rooms, but since a flight up the stairs, by family and friends is not so bad, since it gives everyone making the trek a constant reminder of how magnificent the second floor rooms are. So while it might seem like a terrible decision by some, I must say it was worth it when one sees how great their laundry room is…and yes, whoever is fortunate enough to win this house can always make the changes that are so important to some…."
Thanks, Annie, I read that, but really, to me it didn't explain anything. I would not object to a combo Laundry powder room and in the long run, that's what I would probably have to do to correct the problem. Victoria, Anitra, Good Housekeeping, Josh, Alison, Matt, Chris–everyone did a superb job IMO. Having a powder room place for Guests downstairs and interior access to the cellar are just too important, especially if one plans to be there year-round. We have ALL made poor decisions at some point in life, so I am not seeking to point any fingers. It is what it is and should I win, I'll adjust accordingly. I have physical challenges and have family with such challenges too. a gravel or shell pull-in driveway along side the house will also be a MUST. I LOVE, LOVE the house and hope to win, just as all of us. I also expect that each of us will need to lend our own tastes and necessities to make the place customized–and that's OK too. Thank you, DIY!!!
B):p<3 Kitty
Kitty
Ditto! on all your points:) I agree first job would be to make the laundry area a combo bathroom. I do not want guest coming into my bedroom if they cannot make it up stairs:(:(
It appears and again I maybe wrong but it seems like the skylights in the upstairs-do not open:(:( I am disappointed with that. I would like the option to be able to open for fresh air? But, it does not matter I guess-if I win that would be the second thing I would look into doing is putting in the dormer/dormers most of wantedo.0 I agree to about the basement access-that is just weird-esp. in a place that gets such cold weather-why would yu have outside access only??o.0
Hope you are doing well and enjoying the rest of your summer<3
Ruffy, I would do the dormers too, if I had some money to spare–in fact, I'd do the largest widest highest allowed so the views would go on and on!!!. Interior basement access is a must. That would be done concurrent to the big window in the megaden.
Thanks for your kind wishes. I wait and wait for results of more medical test.don't like the waiting game. but try to think, no news is good news. Good luck to you , Ruffy! You have put a lot of thought and time into BC–you deserve to win! :pB)<3 Kitty
Kitty you are so sweet:) I am so sorry to hear that you are waiting for results etc. and all that you have been through. I learned again that I am not driving "The Bus of Life", God is!:)
I was to have knee replacement in Aug at least that is what I had planned? the bus got derailed because of a root canal I needed instead-I do not know which is worse?! Don't ever tell me I do not know how to have fun!o.0! Anyway, it happened for a reason and I am going on-waiting to see where the bus is going:) Hang in there Kitty-We know the bus driver is good and we will get to where we need to be and safely:) I wish you well and I do hope a blogger wins-that would be such great fun!
Ruffy, I know and trust that Bus Driver more than Any one in the Universe! I follow Him and His Precepts, so, no matter the results from my legion of tests, I'll be alright. I have been learning a lot, especially about living above one's circumstances, even when they are painful or scary. I know I'm not alone. Grace–or undeserved favor, keeps me going. I so hope that this is the year in which one of the Bloggers wins the Blog Cabin! You're right! That would be such great fun!!!xD^_^<3 Kitty
Hey Kitty finally got the results of MS tests and its a NO. That feels so good.
But I have lost 18 pounds in a year (when I had little to lose). I went out to bachelorette party last week and had to buy new clothes because everything was too big- I bought a size 2 – yes a TWO. I hope I don't get sick I have nothing to fall back on for weight.
Yeah…Nebraska!!! I have to join with Kitty in congratulating you on your great news..
I was very concerned for you when you said you had those test done…I'm so happy for you that it was good news…It must have lifted a lot of worry off your shoulders….
So… now that you have a new lease on life, it's time to try and gain some of that weight back and build up your strength and build a healthy body!.
A size 2 isn't a healthy size…so….. you need to get some meat on those bones….
Girl, you need some "Meat & Taters," a lot of fresh fruit and healthy Vitamins!
A size two Nebraska??? I think I wore a size two when I was in the 7th grade and haven't seen that size since except on my daughters!!! Just thoughts and concerns from Dr. Jennie!!!!!! lol….. Take care and have a good evening!!!
Quickly adding congratulations that the test results were favorable, Charlotte. It is time you had some good news ! Since you are a nursing instructor, I would not venture to try advising you about ways to gain back some weight…but having that one stress lifted may help some. <3
Thank you everyone- I am normally a size 6 and feel good and look good at that weight. My doctor said eat meat, ice cream, cheese and drink beer! Thats why I suggested to my sons the Zebra Brownies for my birthday. I got more test results today and I have some severe vitamin deficiencies. That causes nerve issues- the reason I was having all of those neuro symptoms. Oh well I'm off to buy gummy vitamins- apparently they are absorbed better than capsules!
Great!,fantastic! news Nebraska;)
So great to hear you got good news^_^ Yes, I agree you need to pack on some pounds! I am jealous:) of course. I did not even see a size 2 when I was born!
I am kidding- I truly hope you are feeling better and find out what is going on and get back on the "come back trail"!<3 Go out and find a huge picnic this weekend and sit and EAT!
Feel better and God bless,
YAY for test results Nebraska! email me privately if you want to. Minitoni
I think i'd put in dormers everywhere but the bath and the mega den (better tv viewing in darkened areas). I agree with that views out to back are spectactular!
Kitty, now I know your name from other posts, I have physical challenges too and so does my honey but hers are temporary, needs a knee replacement soon! mine are more permananent and sometimes transitory (I live for those times). I agree with everything you said. There must be a place to put a gravel parking pad near the house. Take out a tree if we have to. There must be parking next to the house.
Hi again, Minitoni! It got late and I, sleepy, so I'm just getting back to you today after a long break. When Hubby and I were in Maine several weeks ago, we visited the BC and I commented somewhere about the parking potential next to the front of the house. It IS feasible there is space and if one needs or wants a more elaborate set-up which includes a carport or garage this is also a possibility, assuming city permits it, and some of the DIY trees may have to go, but that's all. I am so sorry about your physical issues and sad about the vision issue. For more details about the neurological supplement I am taking, NutriNerve 2.2, which cannot be purchased over the counter, but in only one place, here's the web address–your neuro ophthalmologist may wish to check it out too: http://www.neuroeffex.com . I have taken the supplement for severe polyneuropathy throughout (and, like you, transitory and moving to different locations each time) for 3.5 months; and, while not gone, pain levels have considerably improved. Good luck!
Kitty
Hi Minitoni! Just checking in to see how you're doing, sight-wise? Haven't seen you post in a while and concerned. Don't know if you noticed, DIY put a small gravel driveway in beside the BC. CAMAC thinks it may fit 2 cars. I tried to connect with you via Facebook but couldn't and didn't see how I could email, as you had previously suggested. anyhow, if you have FB, I'm Kitty.Charles.Zaugg on it. Wishing you good luck–enjoyed our Blog conversations, and hope your Opthalmologist finds some answers for you! All the best! xDxD^_^:) Kitty
Thanks for the quote! Obviously I overlooked that comment. =/
Perhaps….;)<3 Kitty
…….but, would a powder room been that much more expensive to put in as the Game Room or Home Office ???
Good question. Plumbing is sort of expensive , but this was a small, simple powder room, one sink, one toilet. IT. Something must change, I think,, but I'm not sure whether a full powder room is feasible or just a toilet addition to the laundry room. I need better views of the area before deciding.:| Kitty
Hi Kitty–feel better and best healing thoughts while you await med. results; you will be in my prayers. <3
But Kitty – no sink needed if they had just added it to the laundry- there is already a sink there!
You're right on–I saw that and figure also that the washer/dryer would have to move or be replaced by upright stackable. That's why I need to see the entire laundry as it is now before final decision on layout and privacy door/wall set-up. I'm not sure how wide or tall the front window is–it's not shown in the floor plan. Thanks for your input!
I have some known vitamin deficiencies and being tested for others. Have lots of neuro symptoms with some positive minimization thereof after taking OTC Nutri-nerve 2.2. I actually am seeing the research neuroendocrinologist who developed this now! Google it, if you like. So happy no MS!!!
<3 Kitty
Thanks for teh Nutri-nerve2.2 clue, I'll try that losing vision in right eye suddenly…. don't want to stop driving but may have to. email me on private email. Trying with neuro-opthomologist to figure out vision loss. Will know more in 4 weeks.
Minitoni,are you on Facebook or is your email posted somewhere so we can chat? I would like to speak about the Nutri-Nerve 2.2 that might help some. I'm concerned for your vision. I have diabetes type 2 (w/ controlled glucose) however serious other issues such as rampant polyneuropathy resulting in falls and sensory reactions which cannot be anticipated nor controlled. I have bad knees too so I feel for your honey. My last name and Facebook info is on my Intense Debate page if that helps.:D Kitty
You can find me thru beehive state, but I can't find your on on your I'd page!Sent from my iPad
kitty i just sent you a friend request on fb thanks for the link. I'll try anything once I read about it!
:p^_^<3Friends! Kitty
HI Kitty and sink is already there!
Yeah, i saw that–more concerned with the potty placement, along with privacy cubicle and some dignity! :$B)^_^ Kitty
It sounded like a space issue, according to Victoria Lesser's comments. The game room and office/ library were Mega Den projects. I think the game rm. electronics are used in return for the promotion of being featured in the DIY project, so I am unsure whether those figured into the reno' budget…?
How are you doing, gremol ?
Space issue ?? Shoulda called 'Porta-Potties' & put one in !!! LOL!!! I just don't see having 3 leisure rooms upstairs & no place to do needed business !!!
Yes gremol please email me off the blog. how re you?
I think the MBR suite is accessible by walker but maybe not by wheelchair. I looked pretty carefully. I think more of a problem would be walker access to future downstairs powder room since would have to be smaller.
Thanks for the update. Loved the video with Chris and Matt. The tile in the master bath is a beautiful shade of blue. I love the large white farmhouse sink. And, the mantle in the master bath looks great.
I love this house!
Loved the video of Matt and Chris. Chris is very entertaining! Love the bathroom sink and tub,hooks on the mantle the bedroom doors, double closets, furniture, sliders and on and on
Nice combo yellow and blue! Makes me want to thow some country French in there too. Just a quick passing thought.Thanks, loved all of it!
Windee
Country French would work great–I'm thinking,, we need a tall bureau for unmentionables , jeans and Tshirts and stuff storage, since the one in there is already allocated to entertainment center. Already brain-shopping for one in my existing household that I can spare–yes!!! Have a white down comforter for that bed too… Ahhhh…^_^xD<3 Kitty
Hi Kitty–if you take the BC tour, as one enters the master area, it is a narrow passage into the bedroom because there is a wall of closets on one side—(another question for me about the ease of a wheelchair getting from the double doors to where the room opens up.) Surprised that the storage wasn't shown on tour, but the next DIY show with Matt M. will no doubt show how they installed closets.
Hi LL! I wondered about that area too, but considered that long bench might have to go, so I didn't worry too much. I think the closets are 4 ft. wide and maybe somewhat deep w/ some storage, but I see a definite need for more storage in MBR–perhaps a big trunk at foot of bed too…. We'll see some results tonight. Thanks for your input!xD Have a great week!B)xD^_^<3 Kitty
Kitty
I was wondering if the closets have built in dressers or cubbies for clothes? <3 Windee
Great question, Windee! Considering they have already done the reveal on that room and focused on the bathroom instead, we're in for some waiting, if ever, to see the insides of the MBR closets! Phooey!:So.0 Kitty
could move the bench on the other side of the wall by closets out and accessible for chair and walker.
Funny how we all have added our various personal touches and needs in the design again and again. It would be interesting to see what the winner adds to the BC. White down comforter sounds wonderful! I would paint the stained legs and maybe make a skirt for the bed? Not sure about that, the idea of just easily running a dust mop under it because it is wide open apeals to me too..(Trying to make life easier. lol) Not gonna make that decision when I don't have too. I would have to see it in person to know for sure. Fun to dream.
<3Windee
Hee hee–I'd get a Roombot to rove around the master bedrm. floor and dust under the bed for me !
I hear that! Any conveniences are wise investments, I agree!
xD:p<3 Kitty
Brain inventorying here for what to sell first before move LOL like I'll win!
I did that! LOL!
Kitty
I love ALLTHE HARD WORK that went in this place…just the way it is…
.CHRIS you ROCK!!!!!!!!!!! YOU ARE WELCOME ANY TIME!! just after I get the keys!!!!!!
Boy, do i love this little farm. A very comfortable,warm and friendly home. Also a red barn and 20 arces to boot. I'm already dreaming about decorating for Christmas time if i am blessed with this BC farmhouse. Oh wow and good food smells comming out of that wonderful kitchen. What a blessing for some well blessed family. Thanks to all who had a hand in building this dream come true. God bless.
My sentiments exactly!
Isn't it such a cute little house? Even without the bathroom on the first floor, I just love the place and the land is definitley a plus. I can picture a few little four legged friends munching on the grass there : ) Does anyone know how many acres are by the house and how many acres are by the barn? Just curious…..
Thank you so much for the special treat, Mary. I have just finished yesterday to look through the pictures of each room, as I have been taking time to slowly take everything in that is written in each picture and very slowly take in ALL the AWESOME work you guys have delivered. At the turn of every picture I have been SO impressed with each detail that the different crews put into place; it is very hard pick ONE thing I love the most because all is so beautiful, but SURELY my appreciation for antiques and my appreciation for repurposing different objects has grown SO much with this year’s blog cabin! I’m already looking forward to savoring this special treat you gave us today, Mary. It has been exciting to discover and explore this GORJEOUS cabin. I would not think I even deserve dreaming about winning such a GEM! Thank you again Mary for today’s lead!
It seems to be nice treat. Hey, I can't able to see the video, I am eager to see it. Can you please share it again?